severe agony

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "severe agony" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe intense physical or emotional pain. Example: "After the accident, he was in severe agony and needed immediate medical attention."

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

Last night, the pain became so severe she was crying in agony.

Independent

In a cycle that repeated itself every few hours, when the agony was especially severe, she fell on her knees and screamed; when it was unbearable, she collapsed.

The New Yorker

In spite of all the strikes against it — the demands of opinion, reporting and voice, the severe space constraint and the agony of deadlines — when Dexter gets going, he crawls into the skin and stays there.

The New York Times - Books

If you have ever experienced the agony of a severe case of Poison Oak, imagine that sensation inside your ears!

HuffPost

Every waking second of her day is an agony of hunger, nausea, headaches, dizziness, severe joint pain and obsessive-compulsive thoughts about food.

The New York Times - Magazine

As a student he suffered from headaches and later severe abdominal pains and "would roll around the floor in agony".

Genetics

We are biologically conditioned by visceral memories of severe pain and do not willingly re-enter situations where the agony will recur.

The New York Times

– For example, an article published in a national newspaper with high circulation in India stated: … the brazen abuse of the OTC emergency drug is triggering severe side-effects, and sometimes even failing to prevent pregnancy, forcing girls to suffer the agony of successive abortions.

Global health, science and practice

The agony.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Agony face.

The New Yorker

Oh, agony.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing physical or emotional pain, use "severe agony" to emphasize the intensity and profoundness of the suffering. This phrase helps convey a sense of urgency and seriousness.

Common error

Avoid using "severe agony" to describe minor discomfort or temporary pain. Overusing it can dilute its impact and make your writing sound melodramatic or exaggerated.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "severe agony" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as an object or complement to describe a state of intense suffering or pain. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English, even without examples.

Expression frequency: Missing

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "severe agony" is a grammatically sound phrase used to express a high degree of pain and suffering. Ludwig AI indicates it's a valid expression. While currently lacking specific examples in the provided data, it's understood to function as a noun phrase that emphasizes the intensity of distress, whether physical or emotional. When using this phrase, consider its gravity and avoid overuse in minor situations to maintain its impact. Related phrases like "intense suffering" or "excruciating pain" can provide alternative ways to convey similar meanings with slightly different nuances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

intense suffering

This alternative focuses on the suffering aspect, which may be physical or emotional.

excruciating pain

This alternative emphasizes the physical pain aspect, portraying it as extremely intense and unbearable.

extreme distress

This alternative highlights the emotional or mental anguish experienced.

unbearable torment

This alternative suggests a prolonged and agonizing experience.

acute pain

This alternative focuses on the sharpness and intensity of the pain.

intense anguish

This alternative leans more towards emotional or mental suffering, rather than physical pain.

crippling pain

This alternative indicates that the pain is so severe that it impairs one's ability to function.

agonizing pain

This alternative emphasizes the drawn-out and torturous nature of the pain.

unrelenting pain

This alternative suggests that the pain is constant and provides no relief.

profound suffering

This alternative highlights the depth and extent of the suffering.

FAQs

How can I use "severe agony" in a sentence?

You can use "severe agony" to describe intense physical or emotional pain. For example: "After the accident, he was in "severe agony" and needed immediate medical attention."

What phrases can I use instead of "severe agony"?

Alternatives include "intense suffering", "excruciating pain", or "extreme distress" depending on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "severe agony" in formal writing?

Yes, "severe agony" is appropriate for formal writing when describing significant pain or suffering. However, ensure it accurately reflects the intensity of the situation.

What's the difference between "severe agony" and "intense pain"?

"Severe agony" often implies a combination of physical and emotional suffering, while "intense pain" typically refers to primarily physical sensations. The choice depends on the specific context and the type of suffering you want to emphasize.